Cost of Living: Newark, NJ vs Independence, MO (2026)

Newark

New Jersey
100
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Newark is 49% more expensive than Independence.

$1,330/mo ↑ 25%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 20%
$48,416/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 23%
$337,800 ↑ 103%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 51%
$1,419/mo ↑ 36%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 26%
307,188
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

10.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.625%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
2.23%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

33.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newark, NJ and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $269/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,228/year.

Median household income is $11,064/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newark is $337,800 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Independence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newark vs Independence — common questions

Is Newark or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newark and Independence?
Median rent in Newark is $1,330/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $269/month.
Which city has higher income, Newark or Independence?
Median household income is $48,416 in Newark and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $11,064/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between New Jersey and Missouri?
New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Newark or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Newark has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,330/mo, while Independence has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,061/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newark details → View Independence details →

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